Factory Manager | Motorhome & RV Manufacturing Operations

Introduction

We are seeking an experienced Factory Manager to lead the manufacturing operations of our growing Motorhome and Recreational Vehicle division. Reporting directly to the CEO, this pivotal leadership role is responsible for overseeing the entire production process, from chassis preparation and cabinetry through to electrical systems, quality assurance, and final vehicle delivery

To drive operational performance, production efficiency, quality standards, cost control, and continuous improvement while leading a multidisciplinary team of supervisors, tradespeople, and technicians. This opportunity is ideally suited to a proven manufacturing professional with experience in vehicle manufacturing, RVs, commercial vehicles, marine manufacturing, or modular construction environments.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the end-to-end manufacturing operations of custom and production-line motorhomes and recreational vehicles.

• Manage daily production activities to ensure build schedules, quality standards, and delivery deadlines are consistently achieved.

• Drive operational efficiency, productivity improvements, and cost reduction initiatives across the factory.

• Implement and maintain continuous improvement practices to enhance manufacturing performance and output.

• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of supervisors, technicians, artisans, and production staff.

• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and high performance throughout the operation.

• Ensure strict adherence to quality assurance processes and manufacturing standards.

• Monitor and analyse production performance metrics, implementing corrective actions where required.

• Manage factory budgets, operational expenditure, labour costs, and resource allocation to achieve profitability targets.

• Assume accountability for factory operational performance, including production output, efficiency, quality, and cost control.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, automotive manufacturing requirements, and industry standards.

• Conduct root cause analysis on production issues, defects, and warranty claims, implementing sustainable corrective actions.

• Work closely with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure the timely availability of materials and critical components.

• Oversee inventory management and material planning to prevent production delays and minimise stock shortages.

• Support capital investment decisions, equipment upgrades, and factory improvement projects.

• Recruit, train, mentor, and develop employees to strengthen organisational capability and succession planning.

• Collaborate with executive leadership to develop and execute operational strategies that support business growth objectives.

• Ensure vehicles meet customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and company quality standards prior to final delivery.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• 5-10 years' proven experience in a Factory Manager, Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, or Production Manager role within a manufacturing environment.

• Experience within RV, motorhome, commercial vehicle, automotive, marine, or modular construction manufacturing environments.

• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary production teams in a high-volume or high-variability manufacturing operation.

• Proven track record in driving operational excellence, productivity improvements, quality enhancement, and cost reduction initiatives.

• Strong experience managing production planning, inventory control, supply chain coordination, and factory resource allocation.

• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies and process optimisation within a manufacturing environment.

• Sound financial management experience, including budget control, labour cost management, and operational expenditure oversight.

• Proven leadership experience with staff development, performance management, and building high-performing teams.

• Strong understanding of quality assurance processes, health and safety requirements, and manufacturing compliance standards.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing Management, or a related field advantageous.

• Equivalent technical qualification or extensive trade-based leadership experience will be considered.

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, production processes, and factory management principles.

• Working knowledge of 12V DC and 240V AC electrical systems, vehicle body construction, plumbing systems, cabinetry, and assembly operations advantageous.

• Excellent leadership, people management, and team development skills.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• High level of commercial acumen with a focus on profitability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

• Excellent communication, planning, and organisational skills.

• Proficiency in ERP, MRP, inventory management, and production planning systems would be advantageous.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Leadership

• Manufacturing Operations Management

• Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

• Production Planning & Scheduling

• Quality Management

• Budget & Cost Control

• Supply Chain Coordination

• Health & Safety Compliance

• Team Development & Coaching

• Performance Management

• Problem Solving & Decision Making

• Stakeholder Management